Ground-Details

Welcome to Detroit Cricket League, the biggest T-Ball Cricket league in North America. This league was started by cricket enthusiasts in Detroit, in 1996. The regular season starts around May and ends in October.

This document has been developed in order to familiarize participants with Detroit Cricket League and provide information about the rules and bylaws.

2Season Schedule

1)The start and end dates for the various rounds and playoffs are made known via the distributed schedule prior to the season.

2)The schedule specifies mandatory umpiring requirements.

3)The schedule also specifies the 'minimum games' rule (a player must play at least 4 games to qualify for playoffs, each team is given only 2 players who played at least 3 games to choose from the roster to qualify for playoffs). Players are not qualified for rain abandoned games.If the game is cancelled by the committee due to weather or any other reason, teams are allowed to submit a playing 11. Playing 11 submitted by the team for the cancelled game can be counted for playoff qualification.

4)Requests for rescheduling games will not be entertained by DCL. If a team agrees to make changes, DCL is neither responsible for ground allotment nor getting the umpires for the game. Also there is no ground allotment binding on that scheduled day if the team chooses to play their game ahead of schedule.

5)The only exception to the above rule will be made when DCL deems it necessary to reschedule a game, as in ‘acts of God’.

6)All playoff games will have a mandatory ‘Rain Day’ as specified in the schedule.

7)All non-playoff games will have an optional ‘Rain Day’ as specified in the schedule.

8)Any schedule related changes (including venues) must be approved by the committee.

9)This document, the season scheduler document (that contains the schedule and standings) and the meeting minutes of the pre-season Captains meeting are the 3 documents that specify the rules.

3 Team Registration

1)The registration fee for the season will be announced to the captains of the interested teams (typically via email).

2)Payment must be received by the date specified in the registration fee announcement communication.

3)Team contact information (email, phone number, etc.) must be provided along with the full fee.

4 Team Roster

1)Teams are allowed to play with an open unlimited roster.

2)A player representing a team either in the playing 11 or as a substitute shall not represent (playing 11 or substitute) another team during the same season.

3)If the above rule is violated, the opposition team will be awarded the game and corresponding points, irrespective of the actual result of the game. The team which the player first represented is not in violation of the multiple representation rules. The violating player cannot represent any other team, including the first team that the player represented. If he does, then that team is deemed as violating the multiple representation rules.

4)A team violating the multiple representation rules more than once will not be allowed to take any further part in the remainder of the season (including the playoffs).

5)Teams yet to play the violating team will be deemed to have 'won' the match and will be awarded the full game points (including bonus point if applicable).

6)If discovered before the start of the match, the player shall not be allowed to play under any circumstances. If that player’s captain insists on playing him, the umpire will call the game off and award the game and corresponding points to the opposing team.

7)If such an incident takes place and is discovered during a match in progress, the umpire will have no choice but to stop play, call the game off, award the game and corresponding points to the opposing team.

8)If discovered after the game has been completed, the opposing team may file a written complaint to the league. If such a case is found to be true, the offending team will lose the game, and corresponding points will be awarded to the opposing team.

5 Substitute Players

1)In case a playing member of a team becomes "unfit to play" during the progress of the game, the team can use a substitute to replace the "injured" player during fielding, subject to consent of the opposition captain.

2)Once such consent is given, it would be applicable for the remaining part of the game although the substitute fielder cannot bat, bowl or keep the wickets at any stage of the game. In case a team is found to violate the rules concerning substitute fielders the consent may be revoked.

3)Substitution not allowed for late arriving players.

4)The injured player should be available at the ground during the substitution.

5)Substitute player should be part of the roster and should have already signed the waiver form or signed the

waiver form before the start of the game.

Note: If the injured player is not available at the ground, the opposing captain can take away the substitution request. This is to make sure the substitution rule is not misused when the players arrive late or tend to leave to play other games.

6)Team is allowed to take 5 overs of substitution without permission from opposite captain but it is mandatory

to inform opposite captain and umpires.

A team can ONCE have a substitute fielder for any ONE player without an approval from the opponent captain for a maximum of 5 overs.

However,

i)The substitute fielder should be listed as a 12th man in the team declaration form before the toss.

ii)The substitute fielder should be present at the field from the beginning of the game along with the playing 11.

iii)The injured/retired player should be present at the field while the substitution is in act.

iv)The substitute fielder cannot bowl, bat or act as a wicket-keeper or as a captain.

v)The injured/retired player has to field for the same number of overs that he sat out, before he is allowed to bowl.

vi)While the substitution is in act and if the batting team takes a “Power Play”, the substitute fielder should automatically sit out.

vii) Opposition Captain and Umpires must be notified when a substitute enter the field.

To clarify (vi), here is an example of a sequence:

The injured/retired player sits out starting 13th over. (He is allowed to sit out until 17th over)

Batting team calls for the “Power Play” in the 15th over.

The substitute fielder should automatically sit out beginning 15th over.

The injured/retired player has to field for 2 overs, before he is allowed to bowl.

7)Substitute runner rule:

1. The opponent captain has to agree to allow a substitute runner.

2. The opponent captain can choose to pick who the substitute runner should be.

2)Most of the rules are covered by this document. The DCL committee reserves the right to add, modify or delete any rule or guideline during the season if deemed necessary to maintain the integrity of the league.

3)Any changes made to the rules during the season will be communicated to all participating clubs.

7 Approved Equipment

1)All teams will be required to use cricket equipment deemed legal as per the ICC regulations. In addition, all participating clubs will be required to use approved T-Ball recommended by the committee.

2)DCL will provide teams with approved T balls which must be used during official games.

3)Any club found not using the above specified ball will forfeit that game.

4)If at any time, a ball tears, a NEW ball should be used

8 Terminology

ØUmpire: Any use of the word umpire in this document means a neutral umpire, i.e., an umpire not belonging to the two playing teams.

9 Spirit of the Game

ØCricket is a game that owes much of its unique appeal to the fact that it should be played not only within its Laws but also within the Spirit of the Game. Any action, which is seen to abuse this spirit, causes injury to the game itself. The major responsibility for ensuring the spirit of fair play rests with the captains.

10 Captain’s Responsibility

ØThe captains are responsible at all times for ensuring that play is conducted within the Spirit of the Game as well as within the Laws. The responsibility for the team’s conduct firmly lies with the captain.

11 Player’s Responsibility

ØCaptains and umpires together set the tone for the conduct of a cricket match. Every player is expected to make an important contribution to this.

12 Misconduct Warning

1)The neutral umpires are empowered to overlook the behavior of the team during the game. In case of dissent shown by any player during the game such as using abusive language, fighting on the field, too many appeals to the umpires, vehemently disagreeing with the umpires decision, the umpires reserve the right to call the captain of the team involved in such an act and warn the particular player involved. If the umpire gives 3 warnings to a player and the 4th time it happens, the player would be sent out of the game and he cannot be replaced by a substitute nor can he bat if he hasn’t done so already. In case of the team being a batting team and if the batsman has already finished his batting and if such a scenario has been reported by the umpire, the team will lose 1 point at the end of that round (1 or 2). If it is a batting team and if it is during a playoff game, the team will be penalized 1 over of play.

2)Remember consumption of alcohol or urinating where prohibited during a game will be dealt severely. Any player found guilty of such an offense will be suspended from the league indefinitely.

13 Time Delays

ØIn case of time delays, when the ball is lost or a player is injured, it is the duty of the neutral umpire to make note of the time. It is a good practice for both captains to also make a note and remind the neutral umpire. Either way, the neutral umpire’s decision, as in all cases, will be final or no requests can be made to reconsider time delay issues.

14 Clothing

ØThe Sponsor or Committee recommended clothing must be worn during the game. In case of no official clothing, any cricket-appropriate clothing may be worn.

ØA DCL Bowler cannot wear a white T Shirt while bowling. If the batting team objects then the bowler must wear a colored shirt so that the batsman is not put at an undue disadvantage. Stating that the bowler does not have a different shirt will not cut it. If he does not have a colored shirt then he need not bowl (he should not be allowed to bowl). Teams playing a DCL Game must ask their bowlers not to come to the ground wearing a white T Shirt.

Ø.The umpires and the team captains should compulsorily enforce the standard dress code for all games. All playing members should be be wearing full/half sleeve shirt and trousers. Shoes are compulsory. 3/4th pants, Shorts and Sleeveless shirts are NOT allowed. DCL recommends to wear a team uniform

ØPlayers must wear shoes in an official DCL game.

15 Respect

ØRespect your opponents, your own captain and teammates, the umpires and their decisions and the game’s traditional values.

16 Disputes Regarding Boundaries and Boundary Catches

ØIn case of a potential or real dispute regarding a hit for 4/6 runs and/or a catch at the boundary, fielders are advised to stay put and help the umpire make the decision by holding their ground. Benefit of doubt shall always go to the batsman.

17 Against the Spirit of the Game

1) To dispute an umpire’s decision by word, action or gesture.

2) To direct abusive language towards an opponent or umpire.

3) There is no place for any act of violence on the field of play. The committee reserves the right to decide the penalty against the team(s) and/or player(s) and/or umpire(s).

4) To indulge in cheating or any sharp practice, for instance:

Øto appeal knowing that the batsman is not out

Øto advance towards an umpire in an aggressive manner when appealing

Øto seek to distract an opponent verbally.

18 Fair and Unfair Play

1) The neutral umpire(s) is/are the sole judge(s) of fair and unfair play.

2) The umpire(s) may intervene at any time and it is the responsibility of the captain(s) to take action where required.

3) Umpires must intervene for:

ØDeliberate wasting of time by either team.

ØDamaging the pitch by either team.

ØDangerous or unfair bowling by either team.

ØTampering with the ball by either team.

ØAny other action that the umpire(s) may consider to be unfair.

19 Tournament Format and Rules of Play

19.1 Game Format

1)All matches will consist of one inning per side.

2)Each innings will be of 25 overs duration.

3)A bowler will be allowed to bowl no more than 5 overs. In case the total number of overs gets reduced due to late start or rain, the maximum limit per bowler shall be determined by dividing the number of overs per innings by 5 and rounding up to the next integer. As an example, if the match is reduced to 18 overs per side, then only 3 bowlers can bowl up to 4 overs each and 2 bowlers up to 3 overs each. Each team will be required to bowl the allotted overs in no more than 2.0 hours. There will be a scheduled drinks break after 12 overs.

4)Minimum overs requirement MUST be satisfied for any game to be considered completed with result.

5) There will be a total 6 overs of power play in each innings. The first three overs of each innings will be power play overs and the other three power play over can be taken at the batting team’s discretion. If the power play is not taken till 22nd over then the last three overs automatically become power play overs. During the power play the fielding side will field with only 9 players. The fielding side can choose to change the fielders going out as many times as they want. During rain curtailed games, the power play would be exercised for 20% of the allotted overs (rounded off to the end of the over). For example: For an 18 over aside game, the power play is 4 overs (3.6 rounded off to end of over is 4.0).

6)If a playoff game is tied, then a new super over game of 5 overs will be played to secure the result. The 5 overs should be bowled should be bowled by 5 different bowlers. One of the 5 overs must be a power play.

19.2 Start Time and Duration

1) Both clubs must arrive at the ground 15 minutes before the scheduled game time. Both the teams are responsible for setting up the field and boundary markers.

Example Game Start Time

Cutoff Time

8 AM Start Time(First ball to be bowled at this time)

7:45 AM

2) At the scheduled game start time, the toss shall be conducted. Immediately following the toss, the toss-winning captain MUST let the opposing captain and umpire know of his team’s decision right then and there.

3) Toss: At the time of the toss, if one of the teams is not ‘ready to play’, which means at least 7 players are not present and accounted for at the ground, then the toss will be awarded to the team that is ‘ready to play’. Visiting team calls the toss during season. During playoffs higher ranked team will call the toss. In Playoffs, If lower ranked team beats higher ranked team, lower ranked team gets the rank of the higher ranked team.

4) After the toss is over, if a team is still not ‘ready to play’ 15 minutes after the scheduled game start time, the team shall lose an over for every 5-minute delay. If a team is not ‘ready to play’ 30 minutes after the scheduled game start time, (three overs loss is maximum penalty) the match & points will be awarded to the opponent team, provided the other team is ‘ready to play’. The neutral umpire will make the final decision.

Example Start Time

Block Delayed

Penalty

8 AM Start Time

15 Minutes, 8:15 AM

1 over docked every 5 minutes

8 AM Start Time

30 Minutes, 8:30 AM

Maximum of 3 overs docked. At Umpire’s discretion, the match will be awarded to the opponent team, if they are ready to play.

5) A team with "missing players" has a choice to start playing with an "incomplete" team until 30 minutes after scheduled game start time to avoid the penalty. Example: It is 9:30 AM for 9 AM start.

6) If both teams are not ‘ready to play’ 30 minutes after the scheduled start time the overs will be reduced in order to make up for the time.

7) If both teams are not ‘ready to play’ 45 minutes after the scheduled start time, then the match will be counted as a loss for both teams, and no points will be awarded.

8) In case of a delayed start, the umpires and both the captains should agree to the start time of the game and the number of overs to be bowled per innings. The maximum overs per inning cannot be modified once the game has started.

9) All games held during before June and after August may start 30 minutes later than usual. All times must be adjusted accordingly.

Time Line for a 9 AM Start. Please adjust accordingly based on the scheduled start time if different from 9 AM.

8:45 AM

* Both teams and umpires arrive

* Umpires/teams determine the pitch area

* Both teams set up boundary flags

* Both teams are expected to show up even on a rain-affected day

9:00 AM

* Both teams submit list of playing 11 to the Umpire

* Toss is conducted @ 9:00 am

* At least 7 players from both sides must be present

* A team not having 7 players - automatically loses the toss

9:15 AM

* First ball bowled (Grace Period of 5 minutes. I.e. Start time should be 9:20 A.M. at the latest)

9:30 AM

* Play should commence no later than 9:30 am

* If ANY team does not have 7 players present - they will have to start the game or get penalized for 1 over while batting for delay of every 5 minute block

(E.g. 5 minutes = 1 over. 10 minutes = 2 overs)

9:45 AM

* On Rain affected days, Grounds must be set up by this time

* Decision on ground conditions for fair play MUST be made by Umpires

9:45 AM

* Any team not having at least 7 players or a team which does not show up forfeits the game

* If both teams do not show up or do not have at least 7 players - NO Points will be awarded. Game will be classified as NO RESULT

10:15 AM

* Cut-off time for delayed start - Alternate day can be used for Saturday games

* Umpires can make the call for 18 overs maximum per inning Game, if play is possible

19.3 Completion of Overs and Slow Over Rate

Under normal circumstances, timely start (9:00 - 9:15 am) and without rain delays and interruptions, all teams must bowl their allotted overs in the scheduled time as follows:

1) Team bowling first must finish the allotted overs no later than 11:15 am. The last over MUST be in progress at the mentioned time to avoid any penalty.

2) Umpires may make first announcement at 10:15 am by which 12 overs must be completed. Bowling team captain is advised to consider the time remaining and the overs to be bowled to make necessary adjustments.

3) Team bowling first will lose one over for their batting turn for every 5-minute (BLOCK) delay. For example: 5 minutes of delay will cost the team batting second, 1 over and 10 minutes of delay will cost the team batting second, 2 overs.

4) There will be a scheduled drinks break of 10 minutes after 12 overs. Batsmen can ask for drink or a bat change only during the change of overs with permission from the Umpires.

5) The second innings must start by 11:30 am.

6) Team bowling second failing to complete their allotted overs by 12:30/1:30 pm will be penalized $20.00 per lost over.

7) At any stage, if the shortfall is more than 2 overs, the Umpire will warn the Captain of the offending team. If the same trend continues in other games for the same team, a disciplinary action may be taken against the respective team by the committee.

8) Umpires have the authority to stop or continue play if an appeal is made for bad light or rain by the batting side. Umpire can direct the game to continue beyond 12:45/1:45 pm to have a valid result of the game.

9) Umpires are solely responsible to ensure that no side intentionally or unintentionally causes significant delay to the game in progress. Umpires should also take the delays due to rain, bad light, lost ball, and injury on the field into consideration before making a decision if a bowling side needs to be penalized for slow over rate.

10) Umpire's decision is final.

11) The above times will be adjusted accordingly in case of a delayed start time or a different start time due to obvious reasons.

19.4 Minimum Overs Requirement

In order to have a valid result for any match the first innings must be completed and 50% of second innings overs must be completed.

1) The regular game will be played for 25 overs per innings. The first innings will consist of maximum allotted overs of 25 and minimum of 18. For rain-delayed start, the number of overs will be reduced to account for lost time. For example: for a 10-minute delayed start, the match will consist of 24 overs per innings.

2) Under no conditions the number of overs shall be reduced to less than 18 per innings (except in a tie playoff game).

3) The number of overs per innings must be finalized before the start of the game. Once determined, the maximum allotted overs cannot be changed at any stage of the game.

4) If the game is set to be played for 19 or 21 overs or 23 overs (odd numbers) the 50% overs for the second inning will be computed as 10, 11 and 12 respectively (rounded up to the next integer).

5) If minimum overs requirement cannot be satisfied on the game day, ‘rain day’ will be used as alternate day for a NEW game. The rain day for any Saturday game is the very next day – Sunday. Under no circumstances can a game be postponed to the following weekend for regular season games. In the regular season, in case of rain, both teams need to agree to play on Sunday – otherwise, the default will be sharing of points.

6) If minimum overs requirement cannot be satisfied on an alternate day, the game will be deemed NO RESULT and points will be shared. For all playoff games, game should be decided on the field playing on an alternate day provided by the DCL Committee.

19.5 Cancellations and Bad Weather

1) If affected by bad weather, no game may start later than 10:15 AM. If one of the teams is not ready to play by the adjusted time, they shall lose the game and points will be awarded to the opposing team. If both teams are not ready to play by the adjusted time, then the match will be registered as a LOSS to both the teams and no points will be awarded.

2) In case of inclement weather the assigned officiating umpire will make the decision regarding the game.

3) Teams are expected to show up for all the scheduled games, and the umpire(s) on the field would make a decision whether the playing conditions are favorable to play or not. Failure to show up for the scheduled game by any side will be considered as "forfeiting the game".

4) If the team captains disagree with the umpire’s decision, they may lodge a complaint with DCL, and play under protest. The score sheet has to reflect that they are playing under protest.

5) If one of the team captains disagrees with the Umpire’s decision and refuses to play, then the game shall be awarded to the opponent team. The captain in disagreement may file a protest with the committee.

6) If a game is abandoned or called off then the players are NOT counted towards the eligibility for the playoffs.If the game is cancelled by the committee due to weather or any other reason, teams are allowed to submit a playing 11. Playing 11 submitted by the team for the cancelled game can be counted for playoff qualification.

19.6 Rain Affected Games

In the event of rain, if much time is lost, a game will have to be decided on the basis of the Rain Rule. A game may have to be shortened in most cases, and in some, the result might have to be determined using this rule. All umpires should be aware of how this rule works.

1) Rain before the start of the game:

a. Captains of both teams should be at the ground by scheduled game time (Example: 9 AM), no matter how bad the weather is.

b. If any of the captain or 7 of its team members are not present during the toss, the match will be awarded to the team present there.

c. If both teams do not show up, neither team gets any points.

d. Umpires will decide the starting time of the game based on the playing conditions.

e. However play cannot be started after 10:15 AM. In that case play can be postponed to the reserve day by mutual agreement.

f. The teams will play a reduced overs match depending on the length of the delay.

g. A minimum of 18 overs must be allotted to the team batting first. In other words there cannot be a 17 overs-per-innings game. If the umpire feels that the team batting first cannot play 18 overs (because of time constraints), he can rule out play on that day and the two teams can mutually decide to play on an alternate day before Tuesday of the following week. However, the mutual agreement only applies to regular season games.

h. On a Reserve day, the match has to be replayed - including a fresh toss.

i. Venue of the match is not guaranteed.

j. Play can extend beyond 2:00 PM

k. If both teams agree to a rescheduled game on Sunday, the team designated to umpire is required to fulfill its responsibility – all penalties will still apply for the umpiring team if they do not show up on the alternate day.

l. The above times will be adjusted accordingly in case of a delayed start time or a different start time due to obvious reasons.

2) Rain after the start of the game:

a. Umpire has to calculate and decide whether the match can be continued or not.

The various factors which should be considered in the decision are:

1. Number of minutes delayed

2. Whether team batting first can complete the minimum of 18 overs

3. Whether Team batting second can play for X / 2 overs which is described in the following section.

4. Whether the play area is in playable condition.

b. He will reduce 1 over for every 5 minutes of delay.

c. If the umpire feels that the game cannot be continued, they can call off the game.

The result of the game will be determined by the app mentioned below.

However if the minimum conditions are not met, a NO RESULT will be declared unless BOTH teams agree to play on reserve day.

3) Result of a rain affected game that cannot be completed:

Duckworth-Lewis calculator by Robert Fear version 4 App available on Android mobile devices is used for this purpose.

4) Rain on the reserved day:

a. Same rules as regular game apply.

19.7 Umpiring

Note: The umpires nominated by the team must have played at least 4 games in the past in DCL. For new teams who haven’t played yet in DCL, the names need to be sent to committee for approval.

1) If an umpire fails to show up for an assigned game (30 Minutes after game start time. Example: for 9 AM start, it is 9:30 AM CUTOFF time), then his team may be penalized $10 for every 10 minutes until it reaches $50 maximum fine. The team will also be considered for disqualification from the league and cannot participate in any game for the rest of the season.

2) The officiating umpire MUST show up for the game by scheduled start time on the day of the game. In case an umpire arrives late by 15 minutes (time to conduct the toss), his team may be penalized 1 point.

3) In the absence of an assigned umpire the teams have two options:

a. Provide their own umpires, agreeable to the opposite captains, and play the game.

b. Call the game off and move to alternate day of play. If such an event occurs on an alternate day of play, and teams do not reach an agreement to play with their own umpires, then 2 points are assigned to both teams and treat the game as tie.

4) 2 Neutral umpires are provided for each game. If both Umpires are Neutral then they both have same rank. One Neutral Umpire cannot overrule another Neutral Umpire. The call made by the Umpire who is in charge of the call is final. If the Leg Umpire is from the batting team then the Neutral Umpire has the right to overrule the Batting side Leg Umpire.

5) Team captains may lodge a complaint with DCL in case they are not satisfied with the standard of umpiring.

6) No one is allowed on the field during play other than the batsmen, the fielding side and the officials. In case of an injury or substitution or bringing in drinks or equipment, the umpire must be notified.

7) A $50.00 penalty will be assessed per violation (if an umpire fails to show up for a game).

8) The umpires must collect the team declaration sheet from the two teams before the toss.

9) The umpires must sign the score sheet at the end of the game.

10) An Umpire should take his own time before giving a decision of Out. When in doubt always consult with the other Umpire. Once a batsman is declared out, the only way a batsman can be called back is if the Captain from the Fielding Side agrees to the same.

11) If the umpire loses count of number of balls and 7th ball is bowled, then the ball counts as a legal delivery and both side will have to live with the ramifications of that extra delivery. The fact that the Umpires, the scorer and the fielding team all missed the extra ball means we have to live collectively with the mistake that was made.

12) If the ball pitches more than once before the popping crease, then the ball is a dead ball. The frame of reference in this case would be the popping crease. Any wickets or runs scored off such a delivery do not count as the ball has been declared dead. Following are all valid instances of dead ball:

ØThe umpire is satisfied that, with adequate reason, the batsman is not ready for the delivery of the ball.

ØThe ball passes the batsman, is gathered by the wicket-keeper, and the batsmen obviously decline to attempt to take runs.

ØThe ball is finally settled in the hands of the wicket-keeper or the bowler, and the batsmen obviously decline to attempt to take any more runs.

ØThe umpire feels that both the fielding team and the batsmen consider the ball no longer to be in play.

ØThe batsmen attempt to run leg byes, and, in the umpire's opinion, no attempt was made either to hit the ball with the bat or to evade it. This nullifies the leg byes.

ØThe umpire intervenes in the occurrence of injury or unfair play.

13) Overrule a given decision: Once an umpire gives a decision, he cannot over rule himself without the approval of the opposing captain. So it is advisable for the umpires to take time to think about it before giving the ruling. This applies to any decision the neutral umpire takes. Once the decision is given then the decision cannot be reversed no matter how badly the umpire wants to change the decision. If the decision is out it is out and if the decision is not out then you cannot reverse it to out after thinking about it or after consulting the other umpire. Bottom line and key advice to umpires is to take their time before rendering any decision and not be in a hurry to give a decision. Once a decision is rendered it is set in stone unless the opposing captain agrees to change the decision. Neutral umpires decision cannot be reversed if that decision is within their domain and leg umpires or main umpires for that matter should not under any circumstance even walk up to the main umpire or leg umpire to offer a consultation just because the fielding team asked or pressurized the leg umpire or main umpire. The consultation comes into play only if the umpire making the decision invites the other umpire for a consultation and just wants to clarify his mind before rendering a decision. We hope this will greatly reduce the influence of pressure that umpires feel from fielding teams and help them give a decision based on what they observed as opposed to what the pressure of the situation demands them do.

14) Leg Umpire consultation: Since both umpires are neutral, leg umpires are advised not to influence decision unless consulted by the main umpire. Having said that main umpires are more than welcome to consult them whenever in doubt. The main Umpire cannot overrule a neutral leg umpire if the call belongs to the leg Umpire as both Umpires are of the same rank. The main Umpire can always overrule a batting side leg Umpire if he feels the call was incorrect.

19.8 Playing Surfaces and Markers

1) No mats or concrete surfaces can be used for playing a game.

2) If the umpire(s) feel(s) that the surface is not fit for the play due to any reason (including surface deterioration due to rain or other causes), he/they may call off the game. Both teams have to agree to play on the alternate day failing which points will be shared among teams. If a similar situation arises on an alternate day, during a non-playoff game, the points will be shared equally.

3) The creases and boundaries shall be distinctly marked by both the teams.

4) In case of natural obstructions or the shape restrictions of the field, a DECLARED boundary can be used by mutual agreement of two captains and MUST be approved by the Umpire. Any catch taken outside the declared boundary will be considered invalid. In addition any catch taken as a "re-bound" from natural element (like a tree, fence or a bench) will not be considered valid but batsman can still be "run out" for any obstructed shot.

5) Players are not allowed to wear metal spikes.

19.9 Points Assignment

The following point system will apply:

1) Win 4, Tie / No Result 2, Loss 0.

2) 1 Bonus Point will be awarded to the Winner if

[(WinnerRunRate - LoserRunRate) / WinnerRunRate] >= 0.15, else the Loser gets the bonus point. In case of a tie/rainout/cancelled game, no team gets the bonus point. In the event a result is decided by extra-ordinary means [e.g. game awarded to a team based on a technicality], the bonus point is not awarded.

3) In the event of teams finishing on equal points in any division (or pool or group), rankings will be decided as per the following criteria:

ØTeam with higher number of wins will get a higher rank

ØWhen two teams have equal points and equal wins, the team which was the winner of the head to head match played between them will be placed in the higher position. When more than two teams have equal points and equal wins, the team which was the winner of most number of matches played between those teams will be placed in the higher position. For example, if 3 teams are tied in the following scenario:

a) Team A beat team B but lost to Team C

b) Team B lost to A but did not play Team C

c) Head-to-head: Team A is 1-1 (50% win) Team B is 0-1 (0% win) and Team C is 1-0 (100% win)

d) So Team C is ranked higher than Team A and Team A higher than Team B.

ØIf still equal, the team with the higher net run rate (overall NRR considering all the matches played at that point) will be placed in the higher position (refer to NRR section below for the calculation of net run rate).

ØIf still equal, the team with the higher number of wickets taken will be placed in the higher position.

ØIn the highly unlikely event that teams cannot be separated by the above this will be done by a random draw.

4) Example Scenarios:

Scenario 1:

Team A, Team B, Team C are all tied with 6 points

Team A beat Team B, Team B beat Team C and Team A did not play Team C

Among the 3 teams:

Team A has won 1 out of 1 game head to head - their win percent is 100%

Team B has won 1 out of 2 games head to head - their win percent is 50%

Team C has won 0 out of 1 game head to head - their win percent is 0%

So Team A is ranked 1, Team B 2, Team C 3 - NRR does not matter

Scenario 2:

Team A, Team B, Team C are all tied with 6 points

Team A beat Team B, Team B beat Team C, Team C beat Team A

Since the 3 teams are tied on head-to-head record, ranking will be based on NRR

Scenario 3:

Team A, Team B, Team C are all tied with 6 points

Team A beat Team B, Team C did not play either Team A or Team B

Among the 3 teams:

………Team A has won 1 out of 1 game head to head - their win percent is 100%

………Team B has won 0 out of 1 game head to head - their win percent is 0%

………Team C did not play either Team A or Team B but has 0 losses

Team C is ranked higher than Team B because they have neither won nor lost and Team A ranks highest because they won and Team B ranks lowest because they lost. So Team A is ranked 1, Team C 2, Team B 3 - NRR does not matter

Wildcard, Quarterfinals, Semifinals and Finals

ØA complete game [at least 18 overs each] must be played to determine the winner.

ØRegular season records, head-to-head record and NRR have no bearing on the outcome.

ØAlternate rain-day is mandatory [and may extend as long as needed].

ØA weekday rain-day can only be possible if BOTH teams agree.

Net Run Rate (NRR)

Formula: (Runs Scored/Balls Faced - Runs Scored Against/Balls Bowled)

a) In the event of a team being all out in less than its full quota of overs, the calculation of its net run rate will be based on the full quota of overs to which it would have been entitled and not on the number of overs in which the team was dismissed.

b) Only those matches where results are achieved will count for the purpose of net run rate calculations. In case a match is awarded to a team because an opposite team violated league rules (forfeiture of games) the NRR computed for the side (receiving awarded game) will be equal to their best NRR up in the regular season from the rest of the receiving team's games – to be calculated at the end of the regular season. The side in violation will receive negative NRR so that the game NRR sums to zero. A bonus point may be awarded depending on the above computed NRR.

19.10 Game Results

1) The team scoring the greater number of runs in the allotted overs shall be declared the winner.

2) If a game is cancelled due to bad weather, at first the game will be rescheduled to “rain day”. If the game is canceled due to bad weather on the alternate day of play, then both teams will split the points. There would be an enforced alternate day for wildcard, quarterfinals, semifinals and the final.

3) In case of a tied game, the points will be shared during the regular season.

4) In case of tie in playoff game, both the teams should play a 5 over game with the same playing 11 on the same day. Each bowler gets 1 over to bowl. Power play is played for 1 over.

19.11 Field Setup and Pitch Length

1) The pitch length should be 22 yards Stumps to Stumps.

2) The pitch length should be verified by both captains and umpires BEFORE the start of the game and cannot be modified once the play has started.

3) The suggested boundary limit is 65 yards maximum unless restricted by the shape of the field. On sides where full-length boundary cannot be setup, declared boundary can be used by mutual agreement of captains and must be approved by the Umpires. Umpires’ decision will be final in case captains cannot reach an agreement.

4) There is NO limitation on placement of fielders as long as they do not cause obstruction to the batsman.

5) The use of spring stumps is only allowed if both teams agree and have an understanding with the on-field umpires. The committee will not entertain any complaints related to run out, stumping and other issues related to stump.

1) Wide markers should be set up before the start of the game and should be set up as follows: Off side wide marker should be placed at 24 inches (2 feet) from the off-stump. Anything outside the leg is a wide. The umpire will verify the setup.

2) Any ball over the marker is not considered a wide.

3) Wide should be called by the main umpire if he feels the ball crossed the plane of the batsman outside the marker. It does not matter where the batter is at that time.

4) All ICC rules for scoring, counting the number of balls bowled in an over and getting out to a wide ball are valid.

5) No matter what movement or other attempt by the batsman to manipulate the line of the bowling, the umpire should judge a fair delivery based on the normal stance of the batsman. Remember the wide line does not move with the batsman.

19.13 No-Ball

1) The bowler’s front leg should be inside the bowling box when the bowler releases the ball.

2) If at any time the bowler completely (fully outside) over steps the front line of the box (line closer to the batsman) or If the bowler bowls with the back foot not wholly inside the return crease (i.e. the side crease next to the wickets) then this is a No Ball. Back foot cutting the return crease or outside the return crease are all valid examples of a legitimate No ball.

3) If the bowler’s front foot is raised when he releases the ball and if the foot is still within the plane of the front line, it is not a no-ball.

4) All ICC rules for scoring, counting the number of balls bowled in an over and getting out to a no-ball are valid.

5) Any foot violation and over the waist no-ball are deemed a “free hit” ball. The fielding team can move the field if the batsman who faced the ball crossed over, if not then the same field should remain. The batter and the non-striker can be out only by way of a run-out. If the free hit ball is a wide or a no-ball, the following ball will be a free hit ball as well. This goes on until a legal delivery is bowled. The free hits can only be awarded in case of foot faults and ball landing above the waist. No other condition will result in free hit.

6) It is the Umpire’s responsibility to check with the bowler his guard and convey that to the batsman. After bowling a legitimate ball, it is the bowler’s responsibility to keep the Umpire advised of a guard change during the same over. If one fails, the umpire is within his right to call a no ball

7) For a ball which bounces over the shoulder of the batsman in his normal standing position, it will be considered a ‘No-ball' but there will be no free hit awarded.

8) In accordance to ICC rule 21.7, the umpire shall call and signal "No Ball" if the ball which was delivered by the bowler did not bounce or rolled on the ground or bounce more than once before reaching the popping crease of the batsman.

19.14 Bouncer & Full Pitch Balls

1) A bouncer over the shoulder and a ball that sails above the waist, bowled at a batsman in an upright position standing is considered a no-ball.

2) In both these cases the leg-umpire will make the call.

3) The determination should be made as the ball crosses the batsman, irrespective of where the batter is at that time.

4) If the ball crosses over the stumps without pitching on the ground it is considered a no-ball, irrespective of where the batter is at that time.

5) If the ball hits the stumps without pitching on the ground it is considered out, provided rule 19.14.1 is not violated.

19.15 LBW

Conditions for LBW are:

1) The ball must be legal - It must not be a no ball.

2) The ball must not pitch (bounce) outside the leg stump [on the leg side].

3) The ball must either (a) pitch in line between wicket and wicket or on the off side of the wicket, or (b) not pitch at all before reaching the batsman. Therefore, any ball pitching on the leg side of the wicket cannot result in a LBW decision. To determine the relevant 'pitching zone', an imaginary line is drawn parallel to the long axis of the pitch from the leg stump.

4) The ball must miss the bat - If the first experience the batsman has of the ball is hitting it with his bat, he cannot be out LBW.

5) The ball must intercept a part of the batsman's person - If the ball hits any part of the body, it is a potential candidate for LBW (i.e. it need not hit only the leg for a potential LBW). The one exception is a hand or gloved hand in contact with the bat, which is considered part of the bat.

6) The ball must impact in line - The ball must impact the batsman in the region directly between the two wickets. An important exception is that, if the impact is outside the off stump, the batsman can be out LBW if he does not make a genuine attempt to play the ball (that is, if he does not "play a stroke"). If the impact is between wicket and wicket, the playing of a stroke is irrelevant.

7) The ball must be at the correct height - If the ball is too high and would have gone over the stumps, it is not out.

8) The ball must have been going to hit the wicket - If the ball's trajectory suggests that it would have missed the wicket had the batsman not been present, then he cannot be out LBW.

19.16 Recalling a Batter

1) Once a batter is declared out by the umpire, only the fielding captain can recall the batter to continue batting.

2) Stop appealing to the umpire to recall, the umpire cannot recall once the batter is declared out.

19.17 Fair & Unfair Play

ØICC rules are valid for judging and awarding penalty runs in case of unfair play. The umpire(s) will make the determination and may call the committee for clarifications (even during the game). Any time delays associated with these clarifications will not be considered for game duration rules.

19.18 Scorecards & Umpire Reports

1) Scorecards for all games must include the full batting, bowling, and fielding records, where possible.

2) It is the sole responsibility of the captains to input the scores (designated website) no later than Tuesday, 11:59 PM after the scheduled game. A $25 fine will be imposed on a team for not submitting a score card by the published deadline.

3) If a game is played under protest, this should be mentioned on the report. Any and all other issues (e.g. delays, misconduct, umpire incompetence) MUST also appear on the score sheet.

4) If the scores are not entered before the above deadline, the scores must be submitted to the committee via email. The designated committee member(s) will input the scores.

5) If a team is not able to upload the score card due to unavailability of the website then the same should be communicated to the committee before the dead line to avoid any penalty.

6) Captains must fill-in the team declaration sheet and submit to the umpire before the toss. This information cannot be changed unless the rival captain agrees.

19.19 Liability Waiver Forms

Every player that would be participating in Detroit Cricket League has to be registered to a team and is mandated to sign the liability waiver form. This would protect all the volunteers from liability risks and any potential lawsuits. A participant is deemed eligible if and only if all the following factors are satisfied.

1)If the participant is an official/umpire then they should have signed a waiver form before officiating in a game. It will be the responsibility of the umpiring team captain’s responsibility to see it done.

2)Only one waiver form is required per player for a calendar season.

3)A player has signed an individual waiver form or a group waiver form before stepping on to the field. The signed copy would be emailed to the committee.

4)A team captain has to sign a group waiver form or individual waiver form along with all his players (including reserves) before stepping on to the ground.

5)The signed copies should be handed in person to the committee or scanned and emailed to dclwaivers@gmail.com.

Any player found guilty of participating in a game without a signed waiver form,

1)Would be disqualified and suspended for the rest of the season.

2)The team the player represents would be reprimanded and the team captain could be suspended for the rest of the season.

19.20 Trophies

1)The winning side of the final game shall be awarded the DCL Cup.

2)Each registered player (up to 16) of the winning side will receive a Champions trophy

3)Each registered player (up to 16) of the losing side will receive a Runners-up trophy

19.21 Protests and Complaints

1)All protests and complaints must be properly signed and submitted to the committee no later than Thursday following the game. The complaints should be emailed to dclcommittee-2014@googlegroups.com.

2)No protests or complaints will be valid if a game is played without an approved DCL umpire.

3)The decision of the committee will be final.

4)No protests or complaints will be considered unless proper procedures are followed.

20 FAQs

20.1 Player Registration/Waiver Forms

1) Can one submit a waiver form day(s) before one’s game starts?

ØBy all means. That would actually be the most convenient way and helps umpires as well as the web site moderator.

2) Can one have an ongoing group waiver form for one’s team throughout the season?

ØYes you can but if there are any new additions to your roster, the new players should sign the form and the form has to be resubmitted again. Remember to date the new players to help us find the new additions easily.

3) What are the penalties if a player plays without submitting a waiver?

ØRemember, one mistake could threaten this league with a lawsuit which could affect the elected body, volunteers and the sponsors. In order to protect DCL interests, the penalties will be stiff. The player will be suspended for the entire season and the fate of the team captain will be decided by committee.

4) What would one do if one loses a signed form?

ØIt is the responsibility of the captain to get the forms signed again and submit them. If by any chance the forms are lost, please make sure to have them resigned and resubmit by the dead line.

5) Where would one email the form(s)?

Ødclcommittee-2014@googlegroups.com

6) What is the most preferred way of selecting a waiver form?

ØWe have a group waiver form as well as an individual waiver form. Group waiver forms can be carried for the entire season by a team and any new updates to it should be notified to the league. Individual Waiver form could be used by volunteers, umpires who have not signed a group waiver form. Either one could be used but please save some paper by using the group waiver form when feasible.

7) Do umpires and volunteers have to sign a waiver form?

ØAbsolutely. Any participant affiliated with league activities is expected to sign a waiver form.

8) Do I have to submit waiver forms of a player for every game?

ØNo. Only one waiver form per player is required per season.

20.2 Umpiring

Is there a check list to help an umpire officiating in his first game?

ØUnderstand the rules by going through the rules book on the website (forms section). LBWs and wides are the toughest to judge so please understand them and be consistent for both the teams.

ØMake sure teams have provided the team declaration sheet and the waiver forms (applicable to a player playing in his first game).

ØMake sure the boundaries and wide flags are marked properly.

ØIf a team is running late, the umpire has every right to exercise the rule book and penalize the team accordingly. Exceptions CAN be made if and only if the team running late has notified the opposing captain and the umpire ahead of the start time.

ØA player who shows up late can be allowed to participate in the game only if he shows up before the 12 over break of first innings. Any player arriving after the 12 overs cannot play in that game. For a player that shows up after x number of overs: If his team is bowling first, then he has to wait for another x number of overs before he could bowl. He also has to wait for x number of overs before he can bat or after 9 wickets down whichever happens first. If the team is batting first, then he has to wait x number of overs before he can bat or after 9 wickets are down. He also has to wait for x number of overs to bowl during their fielding. So the late comer penalty is extended to the player for both innings.

ØThe power play is exercised continuously for a 5 over stretch. Make sure there are only 9 fielders during that phase.

ØAfter the game, check the score cards quickly and sign them.

20.3 Website

How would one upload scores on the website?

ØEvery team is assigned an account on the website. Please make sure you have changed your password on it.

ØAdd / Edit your players.

ØClick the Add/ Update Score card link, select the appropriate game and input your scores. Remember you should have requested your bowling figures from the opposition after a completed game.

ØThe deadline to submit your scores is COB Tuesday or 48 business hours after the completion of a game.

20.4 Player Eligibility for Playoffs

1) How many games should one play to qualify for the playoffs?

ØA player should have played in at least 4 games before the regular season ends. Each team is allowed 2 players that can play a minimum of 3 games and still qualify. If there are number of players that have played 3 games, then a team has to declare the two that will participate in the playoffs.

2) Is a player qualified for a rain abandoned game?

ØNo. Players are not qualified for rain abandoned games. Exception :Players can be qualified from games where the Cancellation is done by the committee due to Weather or any other reason

20.5 Captain’s Checklist for a Game

1) Is there a checklist for a captain before a scheduled game?

ØEnter your roster in the website and then submit the signed waiver forms for your players to the committee.

ØBefore the commencement of the match, the player must sign the waiver form in front of umpire (preferred).

ØEnsure all your players are added to the website after the game. It should be brought to the committee’s notice if you find any discrepancies.

ØSend the waiver form to DCL committee before Wednesday after the game week.

ØDo not forget to carry a score card, team declaration sheet and a few “official” balls for the game.

ØAfter a game, collect your bowling figures from the opponent team. This will help you update the scores on time.

20.6 Additional DCL Rule Clarifications

A. Bowler attempting to run-out non-striker before delivery

Can a bowler attempt to get a batsman out who tries to take undue advantage of the bowler by leaving the non-striker end early? Does the bowler have to give a warning?

ØWe believe the bowler has every right to attempt a legitimate run-out in such a scenario. No warning needs to be given however giving a warning is appreciated. The applicable rule in these circumstances is “The bowler is permitted, before releasing the ball and provided he has not completed his usual delivery swing, to attempt to run out the non-striker. Whether the attempt is successful or not, the ball shall not count as one of the over. If the bowler fails in an attempt to run out the non-striker, the umpire shall call and signal Dead ball as soon as possible.”

B. Obstructing the Field

Can a batsman be declared out if he intentionally tries to obstruct a fielder’s attempt to get him run-out?

ØYes the Batsman should be declared out if there is an appeal from the fielding team to that effect. The applicable rule in these circumstances is “If the umpire feels that a batsman, whilst running between the wickets, has significantly changed his direction without probable cause thereby obstructing a fielder's attempt to run him out, the batsman should be given out obstructing the field. It shall not be relevant whether a run out would have been affected or not.”

C. Movement by the Wicketkeeper

Can the Wicketkeeper change his position during an Over without intimating the batsman or the Leg Umpire?

ØNo. Anytime the Wicketkeeper makes a change in position during the Over towards the Wickets, it is the Keeper’s responsibility to inform the Leg Umpire of a change in his position. It is the Leg Umpire’s responsibility to then inform the batsman of the change. To keep DCL Rules simple this applies to all DCL Bowlers as DCL has bowlers who fall under different categories and leaving the Umpire to decide under which category a bowler falls will lead to too much subjectivity. The applicable rule is “It is unfair if the wicket keeper makes a significant movement towards the wicket after the ball comes into play and before it reaches the batsman. In the event of such unfair movement by the wicket keeper, either umpire shall call or signal as a DEAD BALL”.

D. Beamer Rule

Can a bowler bowl in the same game if he has bowled two beamers as ICC rules do not permit it in International Matches.

ØYes he can bowl. There is no further penalty for bowling a beamer other than a beamer will be penalized just like a full toss over the waist and is considered a free hit no-ball.

E. By Runner Rule

Do we want to discontinue this as was done by ICC in 2011 or allow in instances where it is justified as we are now and then?

ØWe have decided to err on the side of caution and allow By Runners. We do not want anyone to die on the field or get seriously injured. The health of our players comes before any competitive advantage or disadvantage. The By Runner has to be approved by the fielding side Captain. Neither the Batting Side Captain nor the Neutral Umpires have any say in whether the By Runner is allowed or not allowed. Allowing a By Runner is completely up to the discretion of the fielding team Captain. In addition the batting side may not decide who the By Runner will be. The Fielding Team Captain will pick one of the batsmen who has gotten out to be the By Runner if he decides to allow a By Runner. Once again the logic was we have seen many teams abuse the By Runner rule and take out slow runners and replace them with young men in their twenties who can run faster than a hare. Allowing the fielding side Captain the luxury to pick who the By Runner should be; we felt will greatly reduce the gamesmanship employed by some teams.

F. Steven Finn’s Habit of Kicking Stumps while Bowling

New no-ball rule when a bowler kicks/touches the stumps at the non-striker's end in his bowling stride, like England's Steven Finn does often.

ØThis will be a No-Ball but no free hit

Further Clarification of two possible scenarios:

1. The Batsman walks out of the crease, the bowler see him walking out and either intentionally or unintentionally bowls shorter than usual. The ball pitches once and then a second time just before the batsman can make contact with the ball. The batsman somehow misses the ball and is bowled or stumped. Is the ball dead? Yes because the popping crease is the frame of reference in this case. Even if the batsman had not walked out of the crease this ball would still have pitched twice before the popping crease and that makes the ball dead. So too instead of the batsman being beat if he had hit a six off a ball after the second bounce the ball would be dead - The rule applies equally both ways

2. In this case the Batsman walks out of the crease, the ball pitches once beats the batsman and then bounces a second time after passing the batsman but before the popping crease i.e. second bounce takes place between the batsman who has walked out quite a bit and the popping crease. Here too the ball has bounced twice before the popping crease but the major difference is it beat the bat when the ball had pitched only once. In this case the frame of reference is the batsman and not the popping crease for obvious reasons. In this case even though the ball bounced twice before the popping crease this would not be a dead ball and the batsman will be declared out.

H. Umpires are advised to take their time before they declare the end of an Over. Any overthrows that result after an Over has been called by the Umpire do not come into play as the Over has been called.